Reform of the House of Commons

We are set for a period of debate - and hopefully some action - on making the House of Commons more effective. The incoming Prime Minister has already stressed the importance of enhancing Parliament's role; last week the Tory ‘Democracy Task Force’ report “Power to the People” set out its proposals and very shortly the Modernisation Committee (see blogs for 28th March & 18th April) will present its report.

The Commons have enhanced their effectiveness in recent years. Select Committees have become an important part of the work of the House and are now better resourced. Some outdated practices have been ditched - but clearly there is a perceived need for further, perhaps quite radical, change.